Tuesday 10th January Kestor Rock

There was thick hill fog at Princetown but by the time we arrived in Postbridge there was sunshine in the distance but it wasn't to last as it was interspersed with showers and very mild for the time of the year.  We didn't start from our usual place but went right to the end of the road by Fernworthy Reservoir and then up through the forest to come out almost at the most northerly part of the forest.

High up on the exposed edge of the trees it was apparent there had been strong winds with the trees (in shallow soil)  just leaning over like matchsticks.

The only obstacle on the whole route was the new barbed wire fence which was just a little bit tricky although teamwork got everyone over safely.















Then over to Stonetor Hill to find Stone Tor (17).  This little tor is hidden in the wall for Teighhead Farm and you probably wouldn't find it if you didn't know it was there.

We then went around a boggy bit and towards Batworthy corner.  In the distance the military helecopters were on exercise on the moor.

 

Near Batworthy Corner where there are several distinct stone rows. 























A gentle walk up to Kestor Rock (18)

On top of Kestor Rock is the largest rock basin on Dartmoor, a completely natural feature carved out by the wind and rain over thousands of years.  In the past this had metal railings around to prevent the sheep from falling in but these have long since been removed - the sheep today are not considered to be at risk if they fall in!

Next over to Middle Tor (19)....

Looking across to Frenchbeer Rock from Middle Tor - when the drizzle came down - one of the walks wetter moments!

....and on to Frenchbeer Rock (20)

Looking across to Thornworthy Tor from Frenchbeer Rock....

....and back to Middle Tor

Onwards to Thornworthy Tor (21) with a view of Fernworthy Reservoir nicely full again after all the rain.

B & Q maybe but you don't expect to find one of these in the middle of the moor!














Back to the forest and then finally to the Warren House Inn where Chris and Budd were waiting.

A good number on the walk today with Paul, Carol, Roger, Terry, Rosemary, Charlie and good to have Amber and Colin just back from their long break in America.